Senior Homestead Exemption – to qualify you must be 65 by December 31st of the assessment year for which the application is made, own and occupy the property, and be liable for the payment of real estate taxes on the property. The exemption reduces the equalized assessed value by $3,500 (2007 tax year). The maximum amount of assessment reduction is increased from $3,500 (2007 tax year) to $4,000 for the 2008, payable in the 2009 tax year. Proof of age and ownership is required with the application. An application is available at the Assessor’s Office or the Supervisor of Assessments Office.

Senior Exemption Handout
Download the Senior Homestead Exemption form.

Proof of Ownership – one of the following is required

Note: These documents must be recorded.

• Deed in Trust, plus a copy of the trust agreement
• Warranty Deed
• Trustee Deed
• Quit Claim Deed
• Release of Mortgage
• Release of Deed by Corporation

Note: These documents are not recorded.

• Contract Buying
• Title Insurance Policy – must include Schedule “A”

Note: These documents are not acceptable for Proof of Ownership.

• Affidavit of Sale
• Bill of Sale
• Closing Statement
• Mortgage Policy
• Receivers’ Deed
• Title Commitment
• Trust Deed

Proof of Age – one of the following is required

• State of Illinois Driver’s License
• Passport (current)
• Baptismal Certificate
• State of Illinois ID
• Birth Certificate
• Citizenship Papers – must include birth date